CHICAGO (Army News Service, Feb. 14, 2011) -- This week the Army is exhibiting prototype vehicles and other technologies at the Chicago Auto Show.

The Army exhibit covers 12,000 square feet and is showcasing green and stealth technology, unmatched in the civilian sector, at the show which runs through Feb. 20.

The Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle, or CERV, is one of the future concept vehicles on display by the Army's Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center. This hybrid vehicle combines an all-wheel-drive diesel power train with a light-weight chassis aimed at reducing fuel consumption by up to 25 percent compared to conventional vehicles.

The CERV was jointly designed by Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies and TARDEC's National Automotive Center in Detroit.

The Future Tactical Truck System, or FTTS, is another Army vehicle on display by TARDEC. The FTTS has onboard diagnostics and prognostics along with advanced suspension propulsion systems, and an onboard power generator. It was designed to be deployable by C-130 aircraft.

A third vehicle on display, the Military Extreme Truck, known as the MXT-MV, is now being tested by several commands, including the Michigan Army National Guard. The MXT-MV has a 30-foot fording capability and Diamond Logic electrical system.

In addition to the vehicles, the U.S. Army Accessions Command, Recruiting Command and Cadet Command are conducting operations at the show to increase public awareness of the Army. The "Strength in Action Zone," hosts numerous interactive displays.

The displays are designed to increase understanding and appreciation of the benefits and value of Army service, officials said. They said the displays should enhance awareness of the unmatched education, career and leadership opportunities available in the Army, as well as educate the public on Soldiers, Army life and the leading-edge technology the U.S. Army provides.

Brig. Gen. Bryan Roberts, Recruiting Command's deputy commanding general, hosted a Partnership for Youth Success, or PaYS program signing ceremony with the mayor of Itasca, Ill., at the auto show. Also in attendance at the ceremony were representatives from the Itasca Police Department and Soldiers from the Homewood, Ill., Recruiting Station.

The Partnership for Youth Success program began in FY 2000 as a U.S. Army Recruiting Command program designed to reconnect America with the Army. This program is a strategic partnership between the U.S. Army and a cross section of corporations, companies, and public sector agencies intended to provide an additional recruiting incentive to increase the Army's ability to man the force.

The program provides America's youth with an opportunity to serve their country while they prepare for their future.